Paths to Protection is a blog series exploring the many ways you can help create a world where animals live free from cruelty and suffering. Each installment highlights a different way to give, so you can choose the path that’s right for you—and right for the animals you care about.
Paths to Protection is all about finding simple, powerful ways to protect animals every day. National Estate Planning Awareness Week (NEPAW) is observed from October 20 to 26, 2025. We recognize NEPAW as a reminder that creating or updating one’s estate plan is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give to the people and causes you love.
Estate planning is for everyone, regardless of age or assets! It’s a way to take control of one’s future, ensure loved ones are protected, and even leave a lasting legacy that reflects one’s values. At World Animal Protection, we believe that everyone should have a will. We have partnered with FreeWill to make it easier than ever to create your legacy using our free estate planning tool. Filling out the necessary information to create your last will and testament takes only 20 minutes, and it’s 100% free.
Why Estate Planning Matters
Estate planning is about peace of mind. It’s about knowing your wishes will be honored and that what you care most about will be protected.
Here are a few key reasons to prioritize your estate plan:
Control Over Your Assets
Without an estate plan, the distribution of your property is decided by state law. A thoughtful plan ensures your assets are passed on according to your wishes, helps minimize taxes, and can simplify the legal process for your family.
Provide for Loved Ones
An estate plan allows you to designate guardians for minor children, specify how dependents should be cared for, and make sure the people you love are supported both financially and emotionally.
Support the Causes You Care About
Many people choose to include charitable gifts or bequests in their estate plan. Joining World Animal Protection’s Legacy Society is one of the most powerful ways to protect animals for generations to come. By including World Animal Protection in your estate plans, you can ensure that your compassion continues beyond your lifetime.
Peace of Mind
Simply knowing that you’ve taken steps to protect your family and clearly outline your wishes can relieve stress and reduce the likelihood of disputes.
Planning for Your Companion Animals
Our companion animals are family, and they rely on us completely. Estate planning can ensure they continue to receive the love and care they deserve, no matter what happens.
- Name a caregiver: Choose a trusted friend or family member to look after your companion animals.
- Set aside funds: Some states allow for companion animal trusts, which can provide for food, veterinary care, and other ongoing expenses.
- Include care instructions: You can outline everything from feeding routines to favorite toys or medical needs.
Taking these steps offers peace of mind and guarantees your companion animals’ well-being is never left to chance.
Why Young Adults Should Care, Too
Many people think estate planning is something to worry about later in life. However, it’s just as important for younger adults, especially those with dependents, property owners, or simply those who want to make their wishes known.
Even a basic estate plan can:
- Outline how to handle student loans, car loans, or credit card debt.
- Specify who should make medical or financial decisions if you’re unable to.
- Direct where sentimental or personal belongings should go.
- Protect your digital legacy.
Estate planning is about preparedness, not age. Supporters of all ages are invited to use our free estate planning tool to create a legal will in about 20 minutes.
What’s New in 2025: Trends and Key Updates
Estate planning continues to evolve — and 2025 brings several notable updates that affect how individuals and families should plan for the future.
Federal Estate and Gift Tax Updates
Due to recent legislation, the federal estate and gift tax exemption has been made permanent at nearly $15 million per person ($30 million for married couples), adjusted annually for inflation. This change provides greater stability and eliminates the uncertainty that surrounded earlier “sunset” provisions.
Higher Annual Gift Exclusion
In 2025, the annual gift tax exclusion increases to $19,000 per person—meaning you can give that amount to as many individuals as you wish each year without affecting your lifetime exemption. For married couples, that’s a combined $38,000 per recipient.
Digital Asset Integration
Digital estate planning continues to expand. More platforms and legal tools now allow people to manage passwords, cryptocurrency, and cloud-based data securely within their estate plans, an increasingly important part of modern life.
State-Level Considerations
While federal exemptions remain high, several states still impose their own estate or inheritance taxes. It’s important to review both federal and state laws when planning, especially if you own property in multiple states.
More Flexible Trust Designs
Estate planners are increasingly favoring revocable trusts that can later become irrevocable if certain events occur, or “delayed funding” strategies that give families flexibility as tax laws change.
Taking Action During National Estate Planning Awareness Week
Whether you already have a plan or are just getting started, this is the perfect time to take action:
- Review and update your estate plan to reflect any major life changes.
- Ensure your beneficiary designations are current.
- Include your companion animals and digital assets in your plan.
- Consult with a qualified estate planning attorney for personalized guidance.
And if you’re passionate about protecting animals and the planet, consider making a gift to World Animal Protection part of your legacy. Your compassion can live on through meaningful, lasting change.
Estate planning isn’t just about preparing for the future; it’s about honoring your values today. It’s a way to care for your loved ones, protect the animals who you share your life with, and continue supporting the causes closest to your heart.